School Performance: KODO (KCYS)

This performance is part of the Krannert Center Youth Series, weekday performances for public schools, private schools, and home school groups.

Kodo ignites the stage with the power of Japanese taiko drumming, transforming rhythm into a visceral, full-body experience. Their name means both “heartbeat” and “children of the drum”—a dual spirit that pulses through every performance with intensity, precision, and joy. Since their 1981 debut, Kodo has captivated audiences in over 50 countries, sharing a unifying “One Earth” vision that transcends language and culture through sound.

Rooted on Japan’s Sado Island, Kodo’s artistry blends reimagined folk traditions, bold contemporary compositions, and original works shaped by their global encounters over the years. Each piece is forged through rigorous physical and musical training and a deep connection to nature, resulting in performances that are as disciplined as they are explosive.

Recommended for grades 4 and up